G8 make more cautious aid commitments

G8 world leaders have pledged over four billion euros to reduce deaths among mothers and newborn babies in Africa. The heads of state are in Canada for the summits of both the G8 and G20. However, despite this new commitment, G8 nations have only delivered on two thirds of the aid promised to Africa after the meeting at Gleneagles five years ago.

Mindful of economic difficulties in their own countries, this time the aim is more modest…

Canadian Prime Minister, Stephen Harper:
“My observation is that leaders have actually been very, very cautious in terms of the pledges that have been made.”

On the streets of Toronto, two thousand people gathered for the biggest demonstration against the summit so far. The protest happened just blocks away from the US embassy. The Police in riot gear were out in force, though the rally was mainly peaceful.

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